Chapter 3. Mother Knows Best-5

I can't seem to doze off. Lightning is curled up at the foot of my bed, fast asleep. My brain is working overtime, trying to figure out why my father would lie to me for so long. I didn't say a single word to him, after Nora left. My body is exhausted, but my overwhelming thoughts keep me awake. Eventually, I get out of bed. I can't be bothered to toss and turn, so I leave Lightning to it. Maybe, I can get some fresh air. Watch the sunrise, or something. I end up sitting inside the watch-hut, looking out at the familiar purple lights. Instantly, I feel a little calmer. I wonder what he's doing. Is he like me; struggling to curb the restlessness? Maybe he can't sleep, either. The sun starts to rise, creeping over the horizon and bathing the lands in a warm glow. My eyes feel swollen. I can't stop the tears. I don't know what to believe anymore. I don't know who to trust. "Aly! Where are you? Aly!" A desperate voice echoes behind me. I whip around quickly, almos